Universities Face Uncertain Future as Brexit Is Confirmed

UK universities could be facing uncertainty over future research funding, student fees and hiring of staff from the European Union after Britain votes in favour of Brexit.

Vice-chancellors from top universities had campaigned to remain in the EU, citing the value of research funding they received from Brussels as one of the contributing factors.

Moreover, over 100 vice-chancellors had signed a letter warning about the potential impact of leaving the EU and that it could undermine the UK's position as a global leader in science and innovation.

Although an exit from the EU could take years to complete it's anticipated that it could cause repercussions for higher education.

One of the immediate priorities will be to ensure that staff and students currently working and studying in the UK can continue to do so at British universities, whilst also relaying the message that the UK is still an attractive destination for the brightest and best talent from across Europe.

President of Universities UK, dame Julia Goodfellow, said this morning that leaving the EU would create "significant" challenges for universities but that "there will remain opportunities to seek assurances and influence future policy."